[18 million coaches] Senegal-Iraq: Fans reveal the keys to qualifying for the round of 32

Supporters of the Senegalese national team, like the players, are holding their breath ahead of the crucial match against Iraq. To keep their hopes alive of qualifying for the round of 32, fans are suggesting several strategies that coach Pape Thiaw could use.

This match between Senegal and Iraq represents the Lions' last hope of securing their place in the second round of the 2026 World Cup.

Just hours before this decisive match, supporters are offering their solutions to help the Senegalese team come out on top.

Khalifa Ciss, driver for "Ndiaga Ndiaye," urges Pape Thiaw to rely on youth: "A 4-4-2 or 4-3-3 formation would suit us. But Pape Thiaw absolutely must start Ilimane Ndiaye, Ibrahima Mbaye, and Pathé Ciss. Sadio Mané could start the match, but only for the first half. On the other hand, Gana Gueye and Kalidou Koulibaly could remain on the bench. These young talents who have chosen to represent Senegal deserve to be recognized for their true worth. Modern football demands players capable of bringing fresh energy."

Speaking on condition of anonymity, another supporter called on the national team's senior players to take responsibility. "Koulibaly and Gana Gueye should make things easier for Pape Thiaw. They're getting older and should allow the coach to give more playing time to the younger players. Like Sadio Mané did during the previous AFCON when he asked to be substituted after his injury. Sadio could play the first half before giving way to Ilimane Ndiaye," he suggested.

According to him, the coach should also favour a 4-3-3 system. "I suggest Pape Thiaw build his team around a 4-3-3, because the 4-4-2 has not been convincing enough with the national team."

For Ahmed Niang, the renewal must be even more profound. "All the veterans must make way for the youngsters, including Sadio Mané. I advocate a 4-4-2 formation. We have the players we need to have a good run. Abdoulaye Seck, Mamadou Sarr, Moussa Niakhaté and Krépin Diatta can make up the defense," he explains.

Nursing student Ndiaya Diatta remains confident despite Édouard Mendy's injury. "Mory Diaw is an excellent goalkeeper, but he still lacks experience for matches of this magnitude. I hope this pressure will help him mature quickly. Pape Thiaw could opt for a 4-3-3 formation with Moussa Niakhaté, Mamadou Sarr, Abdoulaye Seck, and Krépin Diatta in defense. In midfield, Habib Diarra, Pathé Ciss, and Pape Guèye would provide balance, while Sadio Mané, Ismaïla Sarr, and Ibrahima Mbaye would lead the attack. In the second half, Ilimane Ndiaye could replace Sadio Mané," he said.

Transit agent El Mayoro Diallo, for his part, argues for a compromise between youth and experience. "Pape Thiaw can't exclude all the experienced players," he maintains. "He has to find a balance between the veterans and the youngsters. On the other hand, he can give Kalidou Koulibaly a rest."